According to Au7o's analysis of 17,800+ owner reports, the 1990-2023 Jeep Cherokee has 20 documented known issues, with 11 rated critical. The most serious are Excessive Oil Consumption (2.4L Tigershark) ($0-$8,500 repair), ZF 9-Speed Transmission Shifting Problems ($0-$6,500 repair), Engine Stalling (Multiple Causes) ($0-$2,500 repair), TIPM Fuel Pump Relay Failure ($75-$2,000 repair), Electronic Shifter Rollaway Risk ($0-$750 repair), Crankshaft Position Sensor (CPS) Failure Causes Intermittent No-Start and Hot Stalling ($30-$300 repair), Death Wobble (Front Solid-Axle Steering Oscillation) ($150-$900 repair), Recall 16V529000: 9-Speed Automatic Can Shift Itself Into Neutral (Transmission Harness Crimps), Power Liftgate Fire Hazard, Power Transfer Unit (PTU) Failure and . at .
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2022 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The turn signal self-canceling feature may not function properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Campaign #24V23900028/03/2024
POWER TRAIN
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2023 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The power transfer unit (PTU) may fail.
Campaign #26V29000007/05/2026
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. An improperly secured connector for the right-side curtain air bag may prevent the air bag from deploying as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 214, "Side Impact Protection" and 226, "Ejection Mitigation."
Campaign #24V51600008/07/2024
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According to Au7o's analysis of 17,800+ owner reports, the 1990-2023 Jeep Cherokee has 20 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Excessive Oil Consumption (2.4L Tigershark), ZF 9-Speed Transmission Shifting Problems, Engine Stalling (Multiple Causes). Of these, 11 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Jeep Cherokee reliable?
The 1990-2023 Jeep Cherokee has 20 known issues documented across 17,800+ owner reports. 11 issues are rated critical: Excessive Oil Consumption (2.4L Tigershark) and ZF 9-Speed Transmission Shifting Problems and Engine Stalling (Multiple Causes) and TIPM Fuel Pump Relay Failure and Electronic Shifter Rollaway Risk and Crankshaft Position Sensor (CPS) Failure Causes Intermittent No-Start and Hot Stalling and Death Wobble (Front Solid-Axle Steering Oscillation) and Recall 16V529000: 9-Speed Automatic Can Shift Itself Into Neutral (Transmission Harness Crimps) and Power Liftgate Fire Hazard and Power Transfer Unit (PTU) Failure and Rear Unibody Frame Rail, Floor Pan and Rocker Rust (Structural). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Jeep Cherokee problems?
Repair costs for known Jeep Cherokee issues range from $0 to $8,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Excessive Oil Consumption (2.4L Tigershark), typically costs $0-$8,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What year Jeep Cherokee is the most reliable?
Reliability varies across model years of the Jeep Cherokee. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 1990-2023 Jeep Cherokee with 20 documented issues documented across 17,800+ owner reports.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
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Community reported
900 owners
The Totally Integrated Power Module fuel pump relay fails, causing no-start conditions or fuel pump running continuously. Unlike older models, the relay is integrated and cannot be replaced separately.
Options include TIPM replacement ($1,500-2,000), professional TIPM repair service ($300-500), or external relay bypass installation ($75). TIPM repair services can complete work within 24-48 hours.
Owner tips & cautions
TipTIPM repair services ($300-500) more cost-effective than dealer replacement
TipExternal relay bypass kits available for ~$75 (DIY solution)
High ConfidenceVerified900 owner reportsLast reported by owners Sep 2023Reviewed Feb 2026
The crankshaft position sensor on the 4.0L I6 and 2.5L I4 XJ is a classic thermal-failure item. Internal components and wiring degrade with age and heat, so the sensor works cold but drops signal once the engine reaches operating temperature. Without a CPS signal the PCM cuts spark and fuel, producing a stall or a crank-but-no-start that mysteriously 'fixes itself' after the engine cools. It is one of the most frequently discussed XJ failures in enthusiast communities and typically strikes around 125,000-175,000 miles.
Engine stalls when hot then restarts after cooling
Intermittent sudden stalling while driving
No tachometer signal while cranking
How to Fix
Replace the crankshaft position sensor (mounted at the bell housing / transmission). The 4.0L PCM is notoriously picky about signal quality, so owners strongly recommend a Mopar (OEM) or NTK sensor rather than a cheap generic unit, which frequently causes repeat failures. It is a roughly one-hour job; a scan tool showing loss of RPM signal while cranking helps confirm before replacing.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Crown 56027866AC crankshaft-position sensor for the 1997-1999 4.0L branch
OEM56027866AC (supersedes 56027866AB)
Test-confirmed crankshaft-position signal failure on a 1997-1999 Cherokee XJ 4.0L Fitment/availability: 56027866AC is explicitly limited to 1997-1999 XJ Cherokee 4.0L. Confirm VIN, connector and transmission calibration; it is not the 2.…
Crown 56027865AB crankshaft-position sensor for the 1997-1999 2.5L branch
OEM56027865AB
Test-confirmed crankshaft-position signal failure on a compatible 1997-1999 Cherokee XJ 2.5L Fitment/availability: 56027865AB is the Mopar-listed 1997-2001 XJ 2.5L crank sensor and the product page is engine-specific. Confirm model year,…
NHTSA campaign 23V338000 covers certain 2014-2016 Jeep Cherokee vehicles equipped with a power liftgate. An electrical short in the power liftgate module may cause a vehicle fire whether the ignition is on or off.
Common Symptoms
How to Fix
Check VIN eligibility. Until the recall repair is complete, park outside and away from structures. Dealers relocate the power liftgate module, add a water shield, inspect for corrosion, and replace the module and electrical connectors when necessary, free of charge. Vehicles repaired under superseded campaigns 15V393 and 15V826 still require the new remedy.
Controller Area Network electrical system experiences communication failures between modules, triggering multiple warning lights and system failures simultaneously. Common codes U0001 and U0131 indicate wiring harness breaks or connector corrosion.
Common Symptoms
Multiple dashboard warning lights simultaneously
"Service Power Steering" warning
Transmission surging or shifting issues
Loss of power steering assistance
Issues worse in freezing temperatures
How to Fix
Identify failed module/harness and replace damaged components. Check battery terminals, inspect cargo area for water damage, verify Power Steering Control Module wiring harness above transmission. May require dealer-level diagnostics.
Owner tips & cautions
TipCheck battery terminals first - clean and tighten connections
TipInspect driver's side cargo area for standing water
Medium ConfidenceVerified1,100 owner reportsLast reported by owners Nov 2023Reviewed Feb 2026
2014-2015 Jeep Cherokee models are named in FCA US LLC's radio software recall. The radio fitted to these vehicles has software vulnerabilities that can allow third-party access to certain networked vehicle control systems. NHTSA's stated consequence is that this may permit unauthorized remote modification and control of certain vehicle systems, increasing the risk of a crash. Nothing about how the Cherokee is driven or serviced changes the exposure — it is fixed by software, and only by software. The 1,416,903 vehicles NHTSA lists is the total for the whole campaign across every model in it.
Common Symptoms
Vehicle systems changing state or responding remotely without driver command
How to Fix
Get the free Uconnect software update that closes the vulnerability. Chrysler mailed affected Cherokee owners a USB drive with the update on it; the update could also be downloaded to a personal USB drive from driveuconnect.com/software-update, or installed immediately by a Jeep dealer at no charge. Chrysler separately arranged for the wireless service provider to close the open cellular connection to the vehicle. Confirm whether your specific 2014-2015 Cherokee still has the recall open by entering the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Moisture accumulates inside headlight housings due to vent holes designed for manufacturing. While FCA considers minor condensation normal, excessive moisture or water droplets indicate seal failure.
Common Symptoms
Fog or condensation inside headlight lens
Frost on lens in cold weather
Water droplets on internal surfaces
Condensation doesn't clear after 20 minutes
How to Fix
FCA TSB states condensation should clear within 20 minutes of operation. If persists beyond 20 minutes or large water droplets present, headlight replacement warranted under warranty.
Owner tips & cautions
TipFCA uses "20 minute rule" - if doesn't clear qualifies for replacement
High ConfidenceVerified500 owner reportsLast reported by owners Jun 2023Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
3,500 owners
The ZF 948TE 9-speed automatic transmission exhibits harsh shifting, delayed engagement, and unexpected shifting into neutral. Early models (2014-2015) experienced the most severe issues. The transmission can unexpectedly shift into neutral while driving, creating a crash risk.
High ConfidenceVerified3,500 owner reportsLast reported by owners Nov 2023Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
800 owners
The ZF "Monostable" electronic shifter returns to same position after each shift, making it difficult to determine if vehicle is in Park. Caused rollaway incidents including death of actor Anton Yelchin in 2016.
Original rollaway recall addressed with enhanced park feedback and software updates. Separate issue with shifter bezel wiring harness (TSB 08-054-18 Rev A) requires replacement. Always engage parking brake.
Owner tips & cautions
WarningAlways engage parking brake and verify gear on dashboard display
High ConfidenceVerified800 owner reportsLast reported by owners Jul 2023Reviewed Feb 2026
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) recalled 2014-2015 Jeep Cherokee models built with the 9-speed automatic transmission because the transmission sensor clusters may have insufficient crimps in the transmission wire harness. With a bad crimp, the transmission can unexpectedly shift into neutral on its own. NHTSA classifies the resulting loss of drive as an increased crash risk, since the Cherokee can drop out of gear without warning while the driver is relying on it to keep moving. The Cherokee is one of several FCA vehicles sharing the 9-speed in this campaign; the 329,540-unit figure NHTSA lists covers the entire campaign across all of those vehicles, not the Cherokee alone. FCA's internal number for the recall is S55, and the owner notification began November 7, 2016.
Transmission unexpectedly shifts into neutral while driving
Sudden loss of drive / vehicle stops pulling even though the engine is running
How to Fix
The repair is free at any Jeep dealer. The dealer reprograms the Powertrain Control Module and the Transmission Control Module, and replaces the transaxle range sensor wire harness if it is found to be necessary. If you own a 2014 or 2015 Cherokee with the 9-speed automatic, enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm whether this campaign (NHTSA 16V529000 / FCA S55) is still open on your specific vehicle, then book the dealer visit. Chrysler customer service can be reached at 1-800-853-1403.
The 2.4L Tigershark MultiAir engine suffers from defective piston rings allowing oil to burn in combustion chamber. Owners report consuming 1 quart per 1,000 miles. Engine can stall when oil falls below 3.5 quarts without warning light.
High ConfidenceVerified4,500 owner reportsLast reported by owners Dec 2023Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
2,300 owners
Multiple factors cause sudden engine stalling including low oil levels (2.4L), VVT issues, faulty sensors, fuel system problems, and transmission-related stalling (2019 9-speed). Stalling typically emerges after ~1,000 miles.
Medium ConfidenceVerified2,300 owner reportsLast reported by owners Oct 2023Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
2,800 owners
The plastic oil filter housing and cooler assembly on Pentastar V6 engines develops leaks due to thermal cycling. The plastic warps, becomes brittle, and cracks over time from constant engine heat exposure.
Replace oil filter housing assembly. Highly recommend upgrading to Dorman aluminum aftermarket housing (PN 926-959) instead of OEM plastic, as it won't suffer from thermal expansion issues.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Dorman OE Solutions aluminum oil-filter housing and oil-cooler assembly
OEMDorman 926-959
Confirmed leak or crack from the oil-filter housing/oil-cooler adapter assembly on a compatible 3.2L KL Cherokee Fitment/availability: The live page guarantees fit for a 2016 Jeep Cherokee 3.2L and identifies complete aluminum assembly 9…
High ConfidenceVerified2,800 owner reportsLast reported by owners Oct 2023Reviewed Feb 2026
The 4.0L is notorious for rear main seal (RMS) leaks, in part due to its two-piece seal design. Compounding the diagnosis, the XJ engine sits nose-up, so oil from almost any upstream leak runs down and collects at the RMS area - the lowest point on the engine - making other leaks look like an RMS failure. A genuine RMS leak leaves oil at the bell housing/flexplate area and can drip onto the driveway over time.
Common Symptoms
Oil drips from bell housing / back of engine
Oil spots on driveway
Oil film covering rear of engine and oil pan
Gradual oil loss between changes
How to Fix
Before pulling the transmission, clean the engine thoroughly and rule out cheaper upstream sources (valve cover gasket, distributor gasket, oil pressure sender, oil filter adapter O-rings, timing cover). If the RMS is truly the source, replace it - the seal is inexpensive but labor-intensive because the transmission/flexplate must come off, which drives the cost.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Crown two-piece crankshaft rear-main seal kit
OEMCrown 4778126
A leak conclusively traced to the crankshaft rear-main seal on a 1990-1999 Cherokee XJ 4.0L Fitment/availability: 4778126 is explicitly cataloged for 1987-1999 Cherokee XJ 4.0L and therefore covers the issue's 1990-1999 4.0L range. It do…
The 4.0L oil filter adapter uses three O-rings that harden and shrink with age (owners describe them becoming brittle 'like bakelite'). When they fail, pressurized oil weeps out and gets blown back onto the rear of the engine, so it is very frequently misdiagnosed as a rear main seal or valve cover leak - compounded by the nose-up engine geometry that makes all oil collect at the RMS area. It is an inexpensive but genuinely common XJ oil-leak source and worth checking before any major RMS teardown.
Common Symptoms
Oil collecting on rear/side of engine block
Leak appears near the oil filter area
Mistaken for rear main or valve cover leak
Oil drips after driving
How to Fix
Replace the three adapter O-rings with an oil filter adapter O-ring kit (e.g., Crown 4720363). Note there are two adapter styles - an early hex type and a later Torx type that is harder to access; some owners delete the adapter entirely with a relocation/bypass. It is a low-cost part but requires care to reseal correctly.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Crown three-O-ring oil-filter adapter seal kit for the early adapter
OEMCrown 33002970K
Confirmed oil-filter adapter seal leak on a 1990-1992 Cherokee XJ 4.0L Fitment/availability: 33002970K explicitly fits 1987-1992 XJ Cherokee 4.0L and contains three O-rings.
The XJ uses a thin unibody with no separate frame, and corrosion is one of its defining long-term problems, especially in salt-belt climates. The rear unibody rails rot where the fuel lines pass through the rail 'tunnel' and near the leaf-spring mounts, while floor pans under the seats/cargo area, rocker panels (which rot from the inside out), and rear quarter panels around the wheel wells also corrode. Because the structure is load-bearing, advanced rust here is a safety/structural issue, not just cosmetic, and can affect leaf-spring mounting integrity. Rust and cracks at the front frame rails/bulkhead welds have also been traced as a cause of death wobble.
Common Symptoms
Rust holes in rear unibody rails near fuel lines
Soft/flaking floor pans under seats and cargo area
Rocker panels rotting from inside out
Rust around rear wheel arches and leaf-spring mounts
How to Fix
Cut out all rusted metal and weld in new steel. A large aftermarket ecosystem sells XJ-specific weld-in repair panels for the rear rails, floor pans, rockers, and rear crossmember (Rustbuster, C2C Fabrication, etc.). After repair, treat cavities with rust-inhibiting coatings. Catching it early before it reaches spring/mount points keeps cost far lower.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Key Parts front floor-pan repair panel, driver side
OEMKey Parts 0482-221-L
Mapped driver-side front floor corrosion where a qualified shop determines this stamped section matches the repair boundary Fitment/availability: 0482-221-L is a driver-side front pan for 1984-2001 Cherokee XJ, including two- and four-do…
Driver-side outer-rocker corrosion after inspection confirms the inner backing and adjacent floor/rail structure can also be restored Fitment/availability: 0482-101-L is the left/driver outer rocker for 1984-2001 XJ two- and four-door bo…
Key Parts outer rocker repair panel, passenger side
OEMKey Parts 0482-102-R
Passenger-side outer-rocker corrosion after inspection confirms the inner backing and adjacent floor/rail structure can also be restored Fitment/availability: 0482-102-R is the right/passenger outer rocker for 1984-2001 XJ two- and four-…
Conditional rear-rail reinforcement only after a structural technician has removed/replaced every unsound section and specified the cap geometry Fitment/availability: RB6062 fits 1984-2001 XJ and caps the rail between the rear crossmembe…
Sunroof drain tubes become clogged with debris, causing water to overflow into cabin. Drain hoses can become kinked or detached, allowing water into headliner. Leads to water damage, mold, electrical issues.
Common Symptoms
Water dripping from headliner
Wet carpets and floorboards
Water in cargo area
Mold and musty odors
Water stains on headliner
How to Fix
Test each drain by pouring water into sunroof corners. Clear restrictions using weed wacker line threaded through drains, flush with water and compressed air. Check for detached hoses in wheel wells. Annual preventative cleaning recommended.
Owner tips & cautions
TipClean drains annually before rainy season with weed wacker line
High ConfidenceVerified800 owner reportsLast reported by owners Sep 2023Reviewed Feb 2026
Like other coil-sprung, solid-front-axle Jeeps, the XJ is prone to 'death wobble' - a violent, self-sustaining side-to-side shaking of the front axle and steering, usually triggered by a bump or expansion joint at speeds above ~45 mph. It is caused by cumulative slop anywhere in the front steering/suspension system rather than a single part; the most common single culprit is worn track-bar bushings, followed by tie-rod ends and ball joints. Wear accelerates with age, larger tires, or lift kits, and the violent shaking can feel like a loss of control.
Common Symptoms
Violent front-end shaking after hitting a bump above 45 mph
Steering wheel shakes hard side to side
Vibration only stops after slowing down significantly
Feeling of losing control
How to Fix
Inspect the entire front end and replace worn components - most commonly the front track bar (and its bushings/mount), tie-rod ends, ball joints, and control-arm bushings - then confirm proper torque and alignment. A quality track bar, steering-box brace, and fresh steering stabilizer resolve the vast majority of cases. A new steering stabilizer alone only masks the symptom; the worn joint must be replaced.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
MOOG DS1147 front track bar for the 1990 branch
OEMMOOG DS1147
Confirmed play at the complete front track-bar joint/bar on a stock-geometry 1990 Cherokee Fitment/availability: MOOG and Advance list DS1147 for 1984-1990 Cherokee. Confirm left/right-hand-drive market and stock-compatible geometry; do …
MOOG DS1235 front track bar for the 1991-1999 left-hand-drive branch
OEMMOOG DS1235
Confirmed play at the complete front track-bar joint/bar on a stock-geometry 1991-1999 left-hand-drive Cherokee Fitment/availability: DS1235 explicitly lists 1991-2001 Cherokee front, left-hand drive. Confirm lift/axle centering and brac…
Dana Spicer 706944X upper/lower front ball-joint kit for one side
OEMDana Spicer 706944X
Load-test-confirmed upper/lower ball-joint play on a compatible XJ Dana 30/44 front axle Fitment/availability: 706944X is listed for 1984-2001 XJ Cherokee Dana 30/44 and services one side. Confirm axle/knuckle and whether a standard or o…
NHTSA campaign 20V343000 covers certain 2014-2017 Jeep Cherokee vehicles equipped with a two-speed Power Transfer Unit. Relative movement between the differential input splines and transmission output shaft may wear away input-spline teeth, causing loss of drive while moving and loss of Park while stationary.
Common Symptoms
How to Fix
Check VIN eligibility. Dealers perform a software update that engages rear-wheel drive to maintain propulsion and activates the electronic parking brake to prevent rollaway if an input-spline failure occurs. The campaign does not state that dealers replace the PTU.
Replace with higher-quality aftermarket components. Service caliper slide pins - clean, lubricate, or replace if corroded. Consider ceramic pads and premium rotors. Avoid water when brakes hot. Brake fluid flush every 2 years.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Front vented rotor and ceramic-pad kit for the 330 mm single-piston branch
OEMExtremeTerrain XJ25607
Confirm VIN, caliper piston count and rotor diameter; it is not the dua
Front carbon-ceramic pad and rotor kit for the dual-piston branch
OEMMAX Advanced Brakes dual-piston front PerformanceMAX kit
Measured worn/damaged front pads and rotors on a 2014-2023 Cherokee physically confirmed to use dual-piston front calipers Fitment/availability: The product explicitly covers 2014-2023 Cherokee dual-piston applications, with a 2019 exclu…
Medium ConfidenceVerified600 owner reportsLast reported by owners Aug 2023Reviewed Feb 2026
The factory 4.0L exhaust manifold is well known for cracking, most often where the two down pipes converge into the collector. The cracks are frequently hairline and follow the factory welds; a major cause is that the manifold is rigidly mounted to the chassis while it moves with the engine, stressing the metal. Because the leak opens under load and heat expansion, it is easily mistaken for a lifter/valvetrain tick. Left alone it worsens over time and can also throw off idle quality and cause a slight power loss.
Common Symptoms
Loud ticking/tapping under acceleration that fades at idle
Exhaust smell or tick from front of engine
Slightly erratic idle and minor power loss
Sound resembles a lifter tick but appears under load
How to Fix
Replace the exhaust manifold - many owners fit a heavier aftermarket or upgraded one-piece/header manifold with flex sections to prevent recurrence - along with the manifold gasket and hardware. Welding the factory manifold is generally not worthwhile as it tends to re-crack. Diagnosis is confirmed by a loud tick that appears under acceleration and quiets at idle.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
ATP 101111 exhaust-manifold kit for the 1990 Renix 4.0L branch
OEMATP 101111 / Dorman 674-170 / OE 53006244
Confirmed cracked or warped exhaust manifold on a 1990 Cherokee 4.0L I6 Fitment/availability: ATP 101111 is explicitly listed for the 1990 Cherokee 4.0L and includes manifold/flange gasket plus studs and nuts. Confirm engine and emission…
ATP 101212 exhaust-manifold kit for the 1991-1999 4.0L branch
OEMATP 101212 / OE 4883385
Confirmed cracked or warped exhaust manifold on a 1991-1999 Cherokee 4.0L I6 outside prohibited sales jurisdictions Fitment/availability: ATP 101212 explicitly fits 1991-1999 Cherokee 4.0L and includes manifold gasket, dump gasket, two b…
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:COOLER/RADIATOR:HOSES AND FITTINGS
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The transmission oil cooler hose may have been incorrectly cured, allowing transmission fluid to leak.
Campaign #21V31000004/05/2021
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER ARM
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Jeep Cherokee Latitude and Jeep Cherokee Limited vehicles. One or both of the front lower control arms may fracture while driving.
What is the 2014-2019 Jeep Cherokee Excessive Oil Consumption (2.4L Tigershark)?
The 2.4L Tigershark MultiAir engine suffers from defective piston rings allowing oil to burn in combustion chamber. Owners report consuming 1 quart per 1,000 miles. Engine can stall when oil falls below 3.5 quarts without warning light. Repairs typically run $0-$8,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2014-2019 Jeep Cherokee ZF 9-Speed Transmission Shifting Problems?
The ZF 948TE 9-speed automatic transmission exhibits harsh shifting, delayed engagement, and unexpected shifting into neutral. Early models (2014-2015) experienced the most severe issues. The transmission can unexpectedly shift into neutral while driving, creating a crash risk. Repairs typically run $0-$6,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2014-2023 Jeep Cherokee Engine Stalling (Multiple Causes)?
Multiple factors cause sudden engine stalling including low oil levels (2.4L), VVT issues, faulty sensors, fuel system problems, and transmission-related stalling (2019 9-speed). Stalling typically emerges after ~1,000 miles. Repairs typically run $0-$2,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2014-2023 Jeep Cherokee TIPM Fuel Pump Relay Failure?
The Totally Integrated Power Module fuel pump relay fails, causing no-start conditions or fuel pump running continuously. Unlike older models, the relay is integrated and cannot be replaced separately. Repairs typically run $75-$2,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2014-2015 Jeep Cherokee Electronic Shifter Rollaway Risk?
The ZF "Monostable" electronic shifter returns to same position after each shift, making it difficult to determine if vehicle is in Park. Caused rollaway incidents including death of actor Anton Yelchin in 2016. Repairs typically run $0-$750. Severity: high.
What is the 1990-1999 Jeep Cherokee Crankshaft Position Sensor (CPS) Failure Causes Intermittent No-Start and Hot Stalling?
The crankshaft position sensor on the 4.0L I6 and 2.5L I4 XJ is a classic thermal-failure item. Internal components and wiring degrade with age and heat, so the sensor works cold but drops signal once the engine reaches operating temperature. Without a CPS signal the PCM cuts spa… Repairs typically run $30-$300. Severity: high.
What is the 1990-1999 Jeep Cherokee Death Wobble (Front Solid-Axle Steering Oscillation)?
Like other coil-sprung, solid-front-axle Jeeps, the XJ is prone to 'death wobble' - a violent, self-sustaining side-to-side shaking of the front axle and steering, usually triggered by a bump or expansion joint at speeds above ~45 mph. It is caused by cumulative slop anywhere in… Repairs typically run $150-$900. Severity: high.
What is the 2014-2015 Jeep Cherokee Recall 16V529000: 9-Speed Automatic Can Shift Itself Into Neutral (Transmission Harness Crimps)?
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) recalled 2014-2015 Jeep Cherokee models built with the 9-speed automatic transmission because the transmission sensor clusters may have insufficient crimps in the transmission wire harness. With a bad crimp, the transmission can unexpectedly shift into neutr… Severity: high.
What is the 2014-2016 Jeep Cherokee Power Liftgate Fire Hazard?
NHTSA campaign 23V338000 covers certain 2014-2016 Jeep Cherokee vehicles equipped with a power liftgate. An electrical short in the power liftgate module may cause a vehicle fire whether the ignition is on or off. Severity: high.
What is the 2014-2017 Jeep Cherokee Power Transfer Unit (PTU) Failure?
NHTSA campaign 20V343000 covers certain 2014-2017 Jeep Cherokee vehicles equipped with a two-speed Power Transfer Unit. Relative movement between the differential input splines and transmission output shaft may wear away input-spline teeth, causing loss of drive while moving and… Severity: high.
What is the 1990-1999 Jeep Cherokee Rear Unibody Frame Rail, Floor Pan and Rocker Rust (Structural)?
The XJ uses a thin unibody with no separate frame, and corrosion is one of its defining long-term problems, especially in salt-belt climates. The rear unibody rails rot where the fuel lines pass through the rail 'tunnel' and near the leaf-spring mounts, while floor pans under the… Repairs typically run $300-$3,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2014-2023 Jeep Cherokee Oil Filter Housing Leak (Pentastar V6)?
The plastic oil filter housing and cooler assembly on Pentastar V6 engines develops leaks due to thermal cycling. The plastic warps, becomes brittle, and cracks over time from constant engine heat exposure. Repairs typically run $700-$1,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2014-2023 Jeep Cherokee CAN Bus Communication Failures?
Controller Area Network electrical system experiences communication failures between modules, triggering multiple warning lights and system failures simultaneously. Common codes U0001 and U0131 indicate wiring harness breaks or connector corrosion. Repairs typically run $150-$2,000. Severity: medium.
What is the 2014-2023 Jeep Cherokee Sunroof Drain Clogs and Water Leaks?
Sunroof drain tubes become clogged with debris, causing water to overflow into cabin. Drain hoses can become kinked or detached, allowing water into headliner. Leads to water damage, mold, electrical issues. Repairs typically run $0-$900. Severity: medium.
What is the 2014-2023 Jeep Cherokee Premature Brake Wear?
Front brake rotors warp prematurely (often around 25,000 miles) due to heat management issues. Soft rotors combined with harder pads and thermal cycling causes excessive wear. Corroded caliper slide pins worsen problem. Repairs typically run $250-$800. Severity: medium.
What is the 1990-1999 Jeep Cherokee Rear Main Seal Oil Leak (Two-Piece Seal Design)?
The 4.0L is notorious for rear main seal (RMS) leaks, in part due to its two-piece seal design. Compounding the diagnosis, the XJ engine sits nose-up, so oil from almost any upstream leak runs down and collects at the RMS area - the lowest point on the engine - making other leaks… Repairs typically run $150-$900. Severity: medium.
What is the 1990-1999 Jeep Cherokee Cracked Exhaust Manifold on the 4.0L I6?
The factory 4.0L exhaust manifold is well known for cracking, most often where the two down pipes converge into the collector. The cracks are frequently hairline and follow the factory welds; a major cause is that the manifold is rigidly mounted to the chassis while it moves with… Repairs typically run $200-$900. Severity: medium.
What is the 2014-2015 Jeep Cherokee KL Cherokee Radio Software Vulnerability Enables Remote System Access (Recall 15V461000)?
2014-2015 Jeep Cherokee models are named in FCA US LLC's radio software recall. The radio fitted to these vehicles has software vulnerabilities that can allow third-party access to certain networked vehicle control systems. NHTSA's stated consequence is that this may permit unaut… Severity: medium.
What is the 2014-2023 Jeep Cherokee Headlight Condensation?
Moisture accumulates inside headlight housings due to vent holes designed for manufacturing. While FCA considers minor condensation normal, excessive moisture or water droplets indicate seal failure. Repairs typically run $0-$1,200. Severity: low.
What is the 1990-1999 Jeep Cherokee Oil Filter Adapter O-Ring Leak (Commonly Misdiagnosed as Rear Main Seal)?
The 4.0L oil filter adapter uses three O-rings that harden and shrink with age (owners describe them becoming brittle 'like bakelite'). When they fail, pressurized oil weeps out and gets blown back onto the rear of the engine, so it is very frequently misdiagnosed as a rear main… Repairs typically run $15-$350. Severity: low.
